With just months to go before California’s general election in November, Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra has solidified his position as the clear frontrunner in the race for governor, according to a new poll from the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC).
The poll shows Becerra capturing 61% of the vote among likely voters, giving him a substantial 25-point lead over his Republican rival, Steve Hilton, who trails at 35%.
Should he maintain his momentum, Becerra is not only poised to win the governorship but also to make history as the first Mexican-American elected to the state’s highest office in California.
His appeal spans across demographic lines, with strong support among all age groups, genders, income brackets, and homeowners as he enjoys the backing of 93% of Democrats and 60% of independents.
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The margin marks a significant shift from the June 2 primary, where Becerra narrowly edged out his opponents with 28.1% of the vote, compared to Hilton’s 24.1%.
Much of Becerra’s momentum appears to be fueled by the state’s environmentally conscious electorate. A striking 85% of likely voters say that candidates’ positions on climate and environmental policy will be a decisive factor in their choice, reflecting deep concern over the issue’s impact on California’s economy.
Becerra, who has frequently highlighted his working-class roots, appears to have struck a chord with a diverse and increasingly mobilized electorate. With the general election rapidly approaching, the latest poll suggests that California voters are prepared to send a Mexican-American leader to the helm of the United States’ largest state economy.
